What can I expect of my tuberous breasts once my implants are removed? (Photos)

Question

I got 275cc saline implants in 2014 to help my tuberous breast shape. In 2019 I got a lift and reconstruction surgery to further help the shape but soon after I got capsular contracture in one breast. My implants are too big IMO and have caused me so many issues I just want them out. However, I’m worried they will look tuberous without them despite the recent surgery. I could get small implants like 150-200cc but I’m afraid I’ll just have issues again. :/

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

In your before photograph, your breasts were widely separated and the nipples were pointing outward.  The lollipop lift did nothing to increase your cleavage.  Adding implants actually made the situation worse.  At this time, I recommend explantation and a mini lift.  Using a circumareola incision, the implants are removed, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  At the same time, fat transfers can be performed.  Implants are not lifetime devices.  8% fail within the first year and 30% fail within six years.  Fat transfers are permanent and incorporated into the body.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi @hbarnett13, thank you for your question. My preference is to combine breast implant removal with immediate repositioning of the breast tissue to address the projection of the upper pole and medial areas using the BRALAN Technique (Breast Reconstruction Anatomical Lift Augmentation) as the results will be adequate and have minimal scarring in the shape of an L. Also, you would not have to worry if your breast was tuberous to begin with. Remember to undergo a complete capsulectomy. If you are considering breast lipoplasty, consultation with a plastic surgeon experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. Best of luck!

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), Member of the International Federation of Adipose Therapeutics and Science (IFATS), Member of the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery (SCCP).

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The smaller the implant and the shorter the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state. It is very difficult to predict breast size following explant b/c breast implants and weight fluctuations over time tend to thin tissues, cause a decrease in size, and create more droop.
Usually removing them and performing a lift at the same time makes the most sense as some patients clearly need a lift and only want to go through one surgery. If you are borderline, it is not unreasonable to remove the implants and then observe a waiting period of six months before the determination for breast lift is made. This will give your breasts time to bounce back and your PS time to determine what type of lift, if any, is needed.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

When the implants are removed your tissues will shrink back to a degree.  As you have had some surgery to address the tuberous nature of the breasts, you may retain some of that improvement.  If you do not wish to add implants you can consider a lift to help with the shape.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear hbarnett13,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. You can remove implant and wait to see the final results. If you are not satisfied with the results after removal smaller implants or fat transfer can be an option. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

What can I expect of my tuberous breasts once my implants are removed? (Photos)

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What can I expect of my tuberous breasts once my implants are removed? (Photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: What can I expect from explant

Answer: What can I expect from explant

Answer: Implant removal

Answer: Implant removal

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.